March is here, bringing March Madness, outdoor play, and kids’ sports in full swing! Whether your child is shooting hoops, kicking a soccer ball, or simply playing tag with friends, protecting their smile is just as important as their game. Dental Mouth Guards are a great way to protect your child’s teeth.
Did you know that sports-related dental injuries account for nearly 39% of all dental trauma in children? (American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, AAPD) From chipped teeth to knocked-out incisors, the risks are real—but with the right precautions, your little athlete can stay safe and smiling.
In this guide, we’ll share expert tips for preventing sports-related dental injuries and what to do if an accident happens.
Why Dental Safety in Sports Matters
Sports injuries are a leading cause of dental emergencies in children. The American Dental Association (ADA) reports that athletes who don’t wear mouthguards are 60 times more likely to suffer dental injuries.
Here’s why prevention is key:
✔ Avoid Pain & Discomfort: A broken tooth can be painful and affect your child’s ability to eat, speak, and smile.
✔ Save Time & Money: Emergency dental visits and treatments like crowns or implants can be costly.
✔ Protect Long-Term Oral Health: Early dental injuries can lead to complications down the road, such as misalignment or weakened enamel.
Whether your child plays competitive sports or casual backyard games, small protective measures make a big difference. Dental Mouth Guards are a crucial protection for all children who play sports.
5 Pro Tips for Protecting Your Athlete’s Smile
Invest in a Custom Dental Mouth Guard (The MVP of Dental Protection!)
A mouthguard absorbs impact and significantly reduces the risk of broken, chipped, or knocked-out teeth.
✔ Custom vs. Store-Bought: While generic mouthguards offer basic protection, custom-fit mouthguards from a dentist provide a superior fit, comfort, and protection—and may even help prevent concussions!
✔ Sports That Need Mouthguards: Basketball, soccer, football, baseball, gymnastics, hockey, and even skateboarding!
💡 Pro Tip: If your child wears braces, a custom mouthguard is even more important to prevent injuries to their lips and cheeks.
Hydration: Water Beats Sports Drinks Every Time
Water isn’t just essential for hydration—it also protects teeth.
Skip sugary sports drinks & juice: These are loaded with acids and sugar, which erode enamel and increase cavity risk. Stick to water: Especially fluoridated water, which strengthens enamel and helps rinse away bacteria.
💡 Pro Tip: If your child drinks sports drinks, have them rinse with water afterward to minimize sugar exposure
Smart Snacking: Fuel Their Game Without Hurting Their Teeth
Sports practices and games leave kids hungry for snacks, but some choices increase the risk of cavities.
✔ Avoid: Sticky, sugary foods like fruit snacks, granola bars, and candy.
✔ Better choices:
● Apple slices & carrot sticks (crunchy and naturally clean teeth!)
● Cheese & yogurt (rich in calcium, great for enamel!)
● Almonds & whole-grain crackers (low sugar, high energy!)
💡 Pro Tip: Pair crunchy snacks with cheese or nuts to balance acidic foods and protect enamel.
Gear Up for Protection (More Than Just a Helmet!)
Many sports require helmets and face masks, but even in non-contact sports, a mouthguard is essential.
✔ Helmets with faceguards are great for baseball, hockey, and football.
✔ Even for non-contact sports (basketball, gymnastics, skateboarding), a mouthguard protects against accidental falls and collisions.
💡 Pro Tip: Regularly check your child’s sports gear for proper fit—ill-fitting helmets and guards offer less protection.
Regular Dental Check-Ups: Prevention is Key
Routine dental visits keep your child’s teeth strong and cavity-free.
✔ What we do: Check for early signs of wear, cavities, or misalignment issues.
✔ Bonus: We can create a custom-fitted mouthguard for maximum protection and comfort.
💡 Pro Tip: Schedule a check-up before the sports season starts to ensure your child’s teeth are game-ready!
What to Do If a Dental Injury Happens
- Knocked-Out Tooth?
- ✔ DO: Rinse it gently and place it in milk or saliva (not water).
- ✔ DO: Visit the dentist ASAP—within 30-60 minutes for the best chance of saving it.
- Chipped or Broken Tooth?
- ✔ DO: Save any fragments and rinse the mouth.
- ✔ DO: Apply a cold compress and visit your pediatric dentist quickly.
- Toothache?
- ✔ DO: Check for stuck food with gentle flossing.
- ✔ DO: Call your dentist if pain persists—never ignore dental pain!
Keeping Smiles Bright, One Game at a Time
Sports should be fun, active, and safe—and that includes protecting your child’s smile. By following these simple yet effective tips, you can help your little athlete play confidently while keeping their teeth healthy.
At Speedway Pediatric Dentistry, we’re passionate about keeping young smiles strong and protected. From custom mouthguards to routine care, we’re here to help!
Schedule an Appointment Today For Your Dental Mouth Guard!
Whether your child needs a sports mouthguard or a routine check-up, we’re ready to assist. Book an appointment today and keep their smile game-day strong!
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- Why you should choose a pediatric dentist for your child’s health.